Tangerão bravo (Musschia wollastonii)

The genus Musschia is endemic to the archipelago of Madeira and is composed of three main species: M. aurea, M. isambertoi and M. wollastonii. M. wollastonii is generally robust and unbranched and can grow up to 2 m. A more or less erect woody stem, topped by a rosette of large shiny green leaves that are pubescent, serrate, long and pointed. Numerous flowers are clustered in a pyramidal inflorescence. Flowers are bell-like, the corolla is yellowish but surrounded by reddish-purple tones. This rare native species is relegated to the island of Madeira, where it only survives in the best preserved areas of evergreen forest, between 400 and 900 m altitude, practically always on damp and shady cliffs and hillsides. This highly attractive ornamental plant—particularly when it is in full bloom—is grown in many island gardens.